I just finished my first mead a week ago and I am working on a preparing for another batch, but I really want to get my process down, especially in concern to yeast nutrients and energizer. It seems like staggered nutrient and/or energizer additions are better. I know why it is better (allowing multiple generations of yeast to get the nutrients instead of just the first generation), but I am having trouble with two things: the schedule, and what kind of nutrients and energizer to use.

1) As recommended by my LHBS, I was sent home with "Wyeast Beer Nutrients" and "BrewCraft Diammonium Phosphate." Are these good choices. I have read that the DAP can instill some bad flavors...is there a better option?

2) LHBS recommended I put the nutrients in on the day I make the must and then add the DAP on day 2 or 3, so I went with 3 (after degassing). After poking around forums and books, it seems like the way to go is staggered nutrients. Can someone explain this to me and how to decide on a schedule (or if the same schedule can be used universally)?

I really appreciate any advice/insight you can offer on these two issues. Thanks in advance!

So it sounds like I should get some SuperFood or Fermaid-K, and the DAP seems alrightm, but I have read in multiple sources that DAP can add some off-flavors. Is there a better option, or is it just a matter of figuring out the fine balance?

I remember reading it on a forum post or two. I am also fairly certain that Michael Fairbrother commented on it (and I think he said he didn't use it because of the off flavors) in his 2012 NHC seminar (which you can listen to for free if you are an AHA member). I will let you know when I know for certain.

It seems, though, that if used in the right ammounts it is great (and I am basing this that "Hightest" and Ken S. both advocate for its use).

edit: I apologize in advance if Michael didn't directly say that. I will listen to the audio when I get a chance...

I have some that I have used on my last 3 batches (out of 4 total) and all three fermentations seemed to go well (my first batch didn't go well but it was with whatever the LHBS gave me in the kit). I just don't have much of a basis to compare it to.